For many businesses, having skilled leadership is crucial for long-term success, which is why more and more students are earning a masters in organizational management to enhance their qualifications.
People often argue whether leaders are born or made, but even the best of leaders can use some guidance and education to polish their innate skills.
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Let’s take a look at what’s involved in a masters in organizational management program so you can better determine whether it’s a good fit for your educational and professional goals.
Online Masters in Organizational Management Programs
“Leadership” and “management” are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they can mean different things within an organization, depending on their goals and strategy.
As someone who aspires to take on a leadership or management role, you may be interested in skills that can help you thrive in either career path. Earning an online masters degree in organizational management can be beneficial in many ways.
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Throughout your studies in an organizational management masters program, you’ll take a deeper dive into areas that are significant to many managerial roles, such as:
- Project planning and management
- Organizing team members
- Prioritizing departmental goals
- Collaborating with and inspiring team members
- Communicating important ideas and critiques
- Dealing with conflict and performance issues
You can also have the opportunity to appreciate how each department functions within an organization to meet holistic business goals.
One benefit of many organizational management masters programs is that you may apply your studies in many different fields. From warehouse management to corporate human resource management, nearly every organization needs effective leadership.
Whether your background is in education, healthcare, industrial production, advertising, or retail, quality managers help inspire staff and increase overall productivity and effectiveness. With a master’s degree in organizational management, you can develop your management skills and learn how to help a business thrive.
Organizational Management Careers and Salaries
Skilled managers are important in nearly every field. From advertising to industrial production, businesses are more productive and efficient when a talented manager is in charge. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are the median salaries of various career opportunities in management.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Managers | $133,380 |
| Compensation and Benefits Managers | $127,530 |
| Human Resources Manager | $126,230 |
| Training and Development Managers | $120,130 |
| Public Relations and Fundraising Managers | $119,860 |
| Industrial Production Managers | $103,150 |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | $101,340 |
| Administrative Services and Facilities Managers | $99,290 |
| Top Executives | $98,980 |
| Management Analysts | $93,000 |
Many employers are learning that quality managers are a key component in employee satisfaction, which in turn impacts innovation, production, and profit. As a result, many employers are looking for highly trained managerial candidates.
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For those who are on track for management roles, earning a master’s degree in organizational management can help give you an edge in a variety of fields. It can also help prepare you for the challenges you may encounter.
Master of Organizational Management Curriculum & Courses
The courses offered by each school you review will likely vary significantly, as each program is uniquely designed. Here are some common core classes you may encounter when earning your master’s degree in organizational management:
- Organizational Leadership: This course examines the role of a leader in an organization along with leadership theory and technique.
- Conflict Resolution in Business: In this course, you’ll learn how to deal with issues that may arise internally and externally in a business setting.
- Human Resource Management: Engaging, inspiring, and disciplining workers are all part of a manager’s job, and this course lays the framework for understanding these procedures.
- Organizational Communication: As a manager, you may communicate with your team, business leaders, and partners, which is why this course is helpful for many students.
- Legal Considerations for Businesses: This course helps managers understand the legalities behind many of the policies and procedures they’ll be asked to enforce.
- Group Behavior for Organizations: In this course, you’ll learn why people act differently in groups and what you can do as a manager to guide their behavior.
- Accounting: Regardless of your chosen field, many managers are tasked with budgeting and accounting for their departments, making this a helpful course for many students.
- Organizational Psychology: This course goes beyond behavior and explores why workers work the way they do.
- Inventory Logistics: Supply management is often a tricky area to navigate for many managers, so this course helps prepare you for sourcing and managing supplies.
- Workforce Development: In this course, future managers will learn how to nurture and inspire talent within their teams.
You may also have the opportunity to take courses that allow you to concentrate on a specialized area of organizational management.
How to Choose an Online Masters in Organizational Management Program
While many online organizational management degree programs offer similar principles and outcomes, it’s important to choose a program that makes sense for your own goals and style of learning. When reviewing available programs, it could help to consider the following questions:
- How much does the program cost, and what financial assistance options are offered?
- Are students asked to complete a thesis, capstone project, or internship?
- Does the program come for a regionally accredited school?
- What type of career support is offered for graduates?
You may also wish to review a program’s course catalog to get a feel for the courses you’ll be taking. Some schools focus more on different areas of organizational management theory and skills, which could impact your career opportunities.
Admissions Requirements
Each school has its own specific admissions requirements, so it’s beneficial to check out the application guidelines or reach out to an admissions counselor if you have questions. Many online masters degree programs in organizational management ask prospective students to provide the following, along with their application:
- GRE or GMAT scores (only some schools require them)
- Official transcripts of all prior education
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or letter of intent
- Resume
You may also be asked to provide essays or writing samples or have an interview with the admissions team prior to acceptance.
Accreditation
When selecting a program for your online masters degree in organizational management, you may wish to give extra attention to programs that have regional accreditation.
Schools that receive regional accreditation have been reviewed and valued for their outstanding academic accomplishment. As a result, many employers give preference to candidates who have earned their degree from an accredited institution. Additionally, some professional organizations only accept members who have graduated from an accredited program.
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You can check with the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) to verify the accreditation status of any prospective schools.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
If you’re interested in seeking financial assistance for paying for your masters degree in organizational management, you can start with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Completing the FAFSA is the first step in determining if you are eligible for needs-based federal aid. You may also wish to explore scholarship and grant opportunities available through the school you select for your degree. Some workplaces offer educational assistance or tuition reimbursement for employees who are continuing their education, so you may wish to connect with your employer to discuss these options.
In addition, you may find scholarship opportunities through community initiatives, professional organizations, and programs designed for advanced education in the business setting.
What Is an Organizational Management Master’s Degree?
An organizational management master’s degree is an opportunity for leaders to hone their skills to become more competitive and productive in today’s business environment.
Regardless of your field of interest, skilled leaders are important for most industries. Whether you’re involved in industrial production, education, marketing, publicity, or business, your management skills can impact the future of your organization.
Throughout your organizational management studies, you can gain greater insight and skill toward nurturing, inspiring, and developing team members and organizations.
What Can You Do with a Master in Organizational Management?
Receiving your master’s degree in organizational management can be a beneficial step toward a career in many different fields.
If you wish to become a manager or even a top executive of a business of any size, the training you receive in a master in organizational management program can help you grow your qualifications. Professionals can also gain greater insight into running their own business, working for a non-profit organization, or navigating the fields of educational administration.
A master of organizational management degree is a broad field of study that can be helpful for leaders in many different professional areas. Your prior experience and degree specialization may impact your career opportunities as well.
It’s may also be worth noting that a growing number of universities offer on-campus or online PhD in Organizational Management degree programs if you are interested in earning a doctorate in this field.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Masters in Organizational Management Online?
Most masters programs can be completed with 1 to 2 years of full-time study. The length of time required to get your online masters degree in organizational management, though, depends on the program design and school schedule.
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For instance, if you enroll in a 36 credit hour program that does not require a thesis, it is possible to graduate within 1 year if you stay enrolled year-round, including during the summer. Programs that do request a final thesis or capstone will require additional time to complete. Those who pursue part-time enrollment will also take longer to receive their degree.
What’s the Difference Between an MBA vs. Masters in Organizational Management?
The difference between a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a masters in organizational management can be subtle.
| Master of Business Administration | Masters in Organizational Management |
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While an MBA is appropriate for anyone who has a career in business, a masters in organizational management is designed specifically for future or current leaders. Some schools offer an MBA in Organizational Management, which would likely contain broader business courses with some specialized courses in organizational management.
What’s the Difference Between a Masters in Organizational Leadership vs. Organizational Management?
The difference between these two programs can be subtle as well. Depending on the program you choose, the terms may be used interchangeably.
| Organizational Leadership | Organizational Management |
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In most cases, the difference between a masters in organizational leadership and organizational management lies in how students approach the process of guiding a team toward success.
Is a Masters in Organizational Management Degree Worth It?
Yes, a masters in organizational management degree is worth it for many students. For those who wish to become esteemed leaders in today’s business culture, this degree can provide experience and insight beyond traditional on-site training.
Experts theorize that an employee’s experience in a role is often directly related to the type and style of leadership they’re working under. Throughout your masters in organizational management program, you’ll learn various theories and approaches to management that can help you become an asset to businesses and corporations.
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, management occupations overall are expected to see 8% job growth over the next ten years.
Universities Offering Online Masters in Organizational Management Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
Andrews University offers an MSA in Organizational Management. The program seeks to teach students the necessary skills to run businesses, churches, and nonprofits. The program requires the completion of 33 credits, which can potentially be done in 1 year. Andrews provides small class sizes and offers the opportunity to attend either online or on campus.
Andrews University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Bellevue University offers a Master of Science in Organizational Management that can be earned online or on campus. The online program uses a cohort model in which students take one subject at a time. New students can begin during any quarter of the academic year. Students may also pursue several professional certifications.
Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Benedictine University offers an online program for a Master of Science in Management and Organizational Behavior.
Online students usually need to commit 11 to 20 hours a week to their coursework and can typically finish in 2 years. On campus and hybrid options are also available. The curriculum consists of courses such as Organizational Behavior: Theory and Contemporary Practice, Organization Development, and Group and Team Building.
Benedictine University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Chadron State College offers a Master of Science in Organizational Management. Focus areas available within the program include Human Services, Natural Resources, and Sports Management. Students in the program have the option to complete a thesis, an internship, or a scholarly project. Graduates of the program often pursue leadership positions in corporate or nonprofit settings.
Chadron State College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Colorado State University offers an online program for a Master’s in Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change. The degree requires the completion of 33 credits and can typically be completed in 2 years. Online courses at Colorado State are designed to be interactive and immersive and emphasize a people-focused approach to problem-solving.
Colorado State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Colorado Technical University offers an online program for a Master of Science in Management with a concentration in Organizational Leadership and Change. Classes are each 5 weeks long, and there are nine start dates offered every year. The program requires the completion of 48 credits. The curriculum consists of courses such as Applied Managerial Finance, Leadership and Ethical Decision-Making, and IT Management.
Colorado Technical University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Eastern Connecticut State University offers an MS in Organizational Management. This fully online degree program is interactive and teaches real-world skills and applications. It is designed to be convenient so that students can balance their studies with other commitments. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Eastern Connecticut State University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Excelsior University offers an online program for a Master of Science in Management with a concentration in Organizational Management. This flexible program requires the completion of 30 credit hours. The curriculum consists of courses such as Ethical Leadership, Strategic Talent Management, and Theories of Conflict and Conflict Resolution. GRE and GMAT scores are not needed to apply.
Excelsior University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Husson University offers a fully online program for a Master of Business Administration in Organizational Management.
The program’s courses are designed to be flexible and offer around-the-clock access. Each one is 7 weeks long. There are multiple start dates offered every year and no set class meeting times. The program’s faculty members have real-world management experience, and students can gain their own experience through Husson’s internship program.
Husson University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Middle Georgia State University offers an online program for a Master of Science in Management with a concentration in Organizational Management. Students in the program take one class at a time in 8 week blocks for a total of 30 credit hours. The admissions process considers applicants’ prior work experience.
Middle Georgia State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Mount Vernon Nazarene University offers an online program for an MBA in Organizational Management that offers 7 start dates every year. Each course is 6 weeks long, and students can usually graduate in 19 months. To graduate, students must complete 36 credits. The curriculum consists of courses such as Legal Issues in Management, Corporate Finance, and Global Business.
Mount Vernon Nazarene University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Pennsylvania State University offers an online program for a Master of Science in Organizational Development and Change. The program requires the completion of 30 credits. It consists of courses such as Foundations of Organization Development and Change, Process Consultation in Organization Development, and Assessing Data: Organizational Diagnosis. The program culminates with a capstone project.
The Pennsylvania State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Peru State College offers an online program for a Master of Science in Organizational Management that can typically be completed in 2 years. To graduate, students must complete 36 credit hours of coursework and a 16 week internship. Class sizes are small and include plenty of opportunities to interact with instructors and classmates. Online students have access to tutoring and other resources.
Peru State College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Saint Joseph’s University of New York offers an MS in Management with a concentration in Organizational Management that can be earned online or on campus. The program requires the completion of 36 credit hours. The curriculum consists of courses such as Legal Issues in Management, Marketing Concepts and Strategies, and Managerial Economics.
Saint Joseph’s University – New York is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Saint Louis University offers an MA in Leadership and Organizational Development. The degree requires the completion of 33 credit hours of coursework, including a master’s research project, and all courses are available in online and hybrid formats. You can apply to begin in either the fall or the spring.
Saint Louis University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Springfield College offers a Master of Science in Human Services with a concentration in Organizational Management and Leadership. The program uses a hybrid format of online and face-to-face learning. The curriculum consists of courses such as Leadership: A Lifelong Journey, Strategic Planning, Program Evaluation, and Building Multicultural Communities and Organizations.
Springfield College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Thomas Edison State University offers a Master of Science in Management with an Area of Study in Organizational Leadership. This 36 credit program is available entirely online and seeks to provide flexibility to accommodate the needs of working adults. It culminates with a capstone project to develop students’ critical thinking skills.
Thomas Edison State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The University of Arizona offers a Master of Arts in Organizational Management. Students in the program take accelerated, 6 week courses one at a time and can typically graduate in 2 years. The curriculum consists of courses such as Management Communications with Technology Tools, The Functions of Modern Management, and Organizational Behavior.
The University of Arizona is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Wayne State College’s Master of Science in Organizational Management can be earned in a convenient online program. Students may choose from a variety of concentrations, including Criminal Justice Administration and Management, Public Relations Management, Human Resource Management, and more.
Wayne State College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Western Governors University offers an MS in Leadership and Management that can be earned 100% online. The program provides flexible scheduling options and can usually be completed within 2 years. The curriculum consists of courses such as Managing Organizations and Leading People, Becoming an Effective Leader, and Strategic Management.
Western Governors University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Getting Your Organizational Management Masters Degree Online
Earning your masters in organizational management can provide you with the necessary skills to impact your employer’s profit margin as well as your direct reports’ overall satisfaction and performance.
It is becoming more and more apparent that effective management is important to motivating today’s workforce. Through an organizational management masters degree program, you can develop the skills to inspire, strategize, and influence your team as you work toward common goals.
If you’re looking to refine your management strategies and become more involved in developing a workforce, you can begin exploring accredited schools that offer organizational management masters programs.
